Practitioner guide - neglect in disabled children

Young boy sitting on black chair

Research indicates that disabled children are more at risk of being abused than non-disabled children. It is estimated that disabled children are over 3 to 4 times more likely to be abused or neglected. They are more likely to be abused by someone in their family, and the majority of disabled children are abused by someone who is known to them.

This analysis covers a wide range of disabilities, including physical and sensory impairments, mental illness, mental or intellectual impairments, and long-term health problems.

Factors that increase risk SHOW


Recognising signs of neglect and what to look for SHOW


Impact of abuse SHOW


Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary
NHS Hampshire and Isle of Wight
Southampton City Council